Top UK cycling routes

The most fun you can have on two wheels

Mam Tor

Derbyshire

Green, cheap and great exercise, not to mention enormous fun, cycling is becoming ever more popular. London has launched its own cycle hire scheme and more of us than ever are exploring Britain by bike. We’ve got hundreds of cycle routes to choose from but here are our five favourites.

Millennium Coastal Park, Llanelli, Wales

The Millennium Coastal Park is a 12-mile stretch of coastline on the Burry Estuary which features a purpose-built traffic-free path following the coastline along the park's entire length. Previously an area of industrial wasteland, the park has been transformed into a tranquil green corridor offering superb views of the Gower Peninsula and a variety of attractions both natural and man-made.

Richmond to Hampton Court, London, England

Wind your way along this photogenic section of the Thames from villagey Richmond to the glorious Tudor palace, Hampton Court. There are some great pubs along the way and even a sandy beach or two. For more information and other routes along the River Thames check out the Waterscape website.

Bristol and Bath Railway Path, West Country, England

Linking the twin West Country jewels of Bath and Bristol, this 13-mile stretch of disused railway track begins in the historic port of Bristol and passes via the picturesque villages of Mangotsfield, Warmley and Saltford before arriving in the heart of Bath.

Wastwater, Lake District, England

The 12-mile cycle from Wastwater to Stanton Bridge via Gosforth is said to have the best view in the Lake District. Wastwater is the deepest lake in England and it’s surrounded by some glorious scenery including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain.

Cairngorms, Scotland

The uplands of Scotland are famed for their rugged beauty and these days, their excellent mountain biking terrain. Trails in the Cairngorms National Park are rarely waymarked - instead, bring a map (there are good route maps available locally) and go and explore.